John E. Steele, 88 of Connersville passed away Thursday, December 10, 2020 at his home.
One of three children of Crit and Pearl Steele, John was born in Butler County, Ohio on December 26, 1931.
On April 8, 1950, John married Mary Ellen Stone. Mrs. Steele survives.
For several years, John and his father-in-law owned and operated Steele-Stone Excavating.
John and Mary moved to the family farm in Laurel in 1960. He farmed there for many years raising tons of produce, corn, tobacco, and livestock.
For several years, John was employed as a heavy equipment operator for the Indiana State Highway Department.
Along with his family, John owned and operated the Steele Sawmill for many years.
His love and passion was woodworking. John was a true craftsman and made countless pieces of furniture, toys, many were Christmas gifts, and other items in his workshop.
John semi-retired, and he and Mary moved to Connersville five years ago.
He had been a member of the Free and Accepted Masons, Laurel Lodge #447, and also served on the Franklin County Zoning Board.
Besides his wife of 70 years, Mary Steele, John is survived by three children, Juanita Wiser (Mendell Cummins) of Metamora, John W. Steele of Connersville, and Nancy (Kemal) Steele-Makasci of Orem, Utah; four grandchildren, Mary, Tony, Ellen, and Megan; six great-grandchildren; a brother, Chester (Rita) Steele of Fall Creek, Wisconsin; a daughter-in-law, Lisa Steele of Laurel; several nieces and nephews.
John was preceded in death by his parents; and a son, Steven Edward Steele.
A celebration of John’s life will be announced at a later date. Miller, Moster, Robbins Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.
Online condolences may be made anytime at millermosterrobbins.com.